Pipe bombers target Romanian families

Andrew Quinn

A Derry city councillor says two Romanian families targeted yesterday in early morning pipe bomb attacks in the Waterside are ‘lucky to be alive’.

Shortly after 1.35am yesterday it was reported that what is believed to have been a pipe bomb type device exploded outside a house in the Lapwing Way area of Kilfennan. No damage was caused to the property. Four adults and one child who were in the house at the time were not injured.

At around the same time what is believed to have been another pipe bomb type device exploded outside a house in the nearby Lincoln Court area. Damage was caused to the front door of the property but four adults who were in the house at the time were not injured.

SDLP councillor for the area, Gerry Diver, condemned both incidents and said he could empathise with those affected as he narrowly escaped a pipe bomb explosion at his own home in 2001.

“These are truly deplorable acts and should be condemned at every opportunity,” said Colr. Diver.

“Anyone who plants a pipe bomb in a built up area has nothing but utter contempt for the safety of those around them.

“Every time I hear about a pipe bomb attack it reminds me of what my family and I had to endure in 2001.

“Pipe bombs have the potential to kill and speaking from experience, those targeted in this pipe bomb attack are lucky to be alive.”

It is believed those targeted in yeserday’s attacks are Romanian migrant workers living in Derry.

Police confirmed they are treating both attacks as hate crimes and saud they also believe both incidents could be linked.

Pat Ramsey, SDLP MLA for Foyle, said his thoughts were with the families.

“My thoughts are with the families who have been targeted and endured such a terrifying experience during this unacceptable attack.

“We must value, respect and accept our migrant community living in the city. Migrant workers are making a significant contribution to our economy and our society.

“I call on anyone who may have information about this to contact the PSNI.”